The United Arab Emirates’ Cybersecurity Council has issued a strong advisory urging citizens to exercise heightened caution when handling financial information online. According to the council, banking and payment data remain prime targets for cybercriminals, who exploit such information to perpetrate theft and inflict economic damage.
Citing recent trends, the council highlighted that fraudsters are increasingly employing indirect methods to steal personal information. Beyond direct attacks on bank accounts, criminals frequently engage in identity theft by first gaining access to email or other personal accounts, subsequently siphoning sensitive financial data.
As part of its weekly awareness campaign, “Cyber Pulse”, the council emphasised that following a few simple precautionary measures can significantly reduce the risk of online fraud. Key recommendations include:
Being judicious about sharing financial information.
Avoiding the storage of banking or payment details on mobile devices or personal computers.
Steering clear of suspicious advertisements, links, or messages.
The council further revealed that approximately 60% of cyberattacks begin with stolen login credentials. To mitigate this risk, users are advised to adopt the following practices:
Store passwords only on secure devices.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.
Keep software up to date with the latest security patches.
Remove untrusted or unnecessary applications.
Avoid using public or free Wi-Fi networks for financial transactions.
Create strong, unique passwords for all accounts.
Activate immediate alerts for any unusual activity on bank accounts.
The following table summarises the principal measures to safeguard financial information online:
| Cybersecurity Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Login Information Protection | Do not save passwords on unknown or shared devices |
| Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) | Enable an additional layer of security |
| Software Updates | Regularly install the latest security updates |
| Avoid Suspicious Links | Refrain from clicking on unverified emails, messages, or ads |
| Bank Alerts | Receive instant notifications for abnormal transactions |
| Caution on Public Wi-Fi | Avoid banking or payment activities on public networks |
Now in its second year, the “Cyber Pulse” campaign aims to cultivate safer online behaviour, raise digital awareness, and foster a secure, resilient cyber environment amid rapid technological change. The council has called on all residents to integrate these practices into their daily digital routines to stay one step ahead of evolving cyber threats.